Defence Ministry Seals Rs 1,614 Crore Deal With Mazagaon Dockyard For Six Next-Gen Offshore Patrol Vessels For Coast Guard

In a significant move aimed at enhancing maritime security, the Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth Rs 1,614 crore with Mazagon Dockyard Shipbuilders Ltd on 20 December for the procurement of six next-generation offshore patrol vessels for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG).

This acquisition, falling under the buy (Indian-IDDM) category, will bolster the ICG's capability and replace aging vessels while augmenting its fleet.

The contract encompasses the construction of six offshore patrol vessels, with four designated to replace existing aging counterparts and the remaining two to augment the Coast Guard's fleet.

"These modern and high-tech ships will play a critical role in enhancing surveillance, law enforcement, search and rescue, maritime pollution response, and other important capabilities, including humanitarian assistance," stated the defence ministry in a released statement, as reported by Economic Times.

The vessels are expected to feature advanced features and equipment, including multipurpose drones, artificial intelligence capabilities, and wirelessly controlled remote water rescue craft lifebuoys, providing greater flexibility and operational advantages.

The acquisition aligns with the government's commitment to strengthening India's maritime capabilities and reinforcing the Coast Guard's role in safeguarding the nation's maritime interests.